Today we’d like to introduce you to Gwendolyn Blake.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
In 2020, I lost my job as an Operations Manager for a local cleaning company due to Covid-19. I was out of work for the first time since I started working at 16. Being a single mother to an amazing 11-year-old son, you can imagine the stress, anxiety, and depression that started to build up.
Then, I got a call from a good friend and ex-supervisor letting me know she had the perfect job for me!!
At that point, I didn’t care what it was, I was interested! Little did I know, it would end up being the most rewarding, exciting, and FUN job I have ever had.
She and my current employer, Roberto Charneco, also known as Robby Tatz, were friends and went to the same gym. In conversation, he expressed that he needed help booking appointments and managing the day-to-day operations of his tattoo shop, Body Language Custom Ink.
Knowing my work ethic, she told him I have the perfect person for you. I went for the interview and got hired as shop manager. About a month in, as the shop got busier and busier, Robby decided the shop needed another piercer. Still learning the tattoo business, I was a little hesitant unsure if that was something I could do.
I took that leap and I am now a certified body piercer. I absolutely LOVE my job!!! And couldn’t be happier he gave me the push and confidence I needed.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t been a smooth road. I have had some fears to overcome.
I am a caregiver by nature and part of me felt like I was hurting people by piercing them. In time, those fears disappeared with every smile I received afterward. Now, it is second nature to me. I have many repeat clients and some pretty awesome Google reviews I am very proud of.
I get so excited when new and returning customers come in. It’s an adventure seeing what they want pierced that day. I have been told I am excellent with minors and first-timers. Minors are able to get pierced with a signed, notarized consent form by the legal guardian. The guardian must also be with the minor for the piercing. I try to explain every step I am doing and make them feel as comfortable as possible.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I work at Body Language Custom Ink located at 13781 E Colonial Dr. Suite C, In Orlando Fl. I am a body piercer known as Piercings by Gwen. I am known for being professional and making those I pierce very comfortable. Many parents trust me to give their minor children their first piercing.
I have a background in business management and also childcare.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Follow me on Instagram, @piercingsbygwen. I run daily specials Tuesdays and Wednesdays and also do Happy Hour on Thursday. Appointments are preferred, however I accept walk ins as long as I am there. We also offer 10% Military and local college discounts with proper ID.
Contact Info:
- Email: Piercingsbygwen@gmail.com
- Website: Www.bodylanguageink.com
- Instagram: @piercingsbygwen
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Piercings-by-Gwen-105260888548723/
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Jenn Wimberly
March 17, 2022 at 12:56 am
I’ve had 3 amazing experiences at Body Language Custom Ink! Robby did an amazing #fortuneteller piece on my hand and some beautiful #linework on my forearm/wrist. Gwen pierced my nose.
Both body artists were professional, calming, comforting, and Robby runs a clean shop! This shop absolutely follows health code standards and the artists have appropriate training and credentials.
I’m looking forward to a piece on my thigh and a piece to finally finish the sleeve on my right arm. This shop is a business where you are treated like family!